A nurse is caring for a client who has acute angina. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Administer aspirin.
Measure blood pressure.
Administer nitroglycerin.
Initiate IV access.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Administering aspirin is one of the first interventions for a client experiencing acute angina because aspirin has antiplatelet properties that help prevent blood clots, which can reduce the risk of a heart attack.
Choice B reason: Measuring blood pressure is important but not the first action to take. It provides valuable information about the cardiovascular status of the client and can influence further treatment decisions.
Choice C reason: Administering nitroglycerin is a priority action for acute angina as it helps to dilate the coronary arteries and relieve chest pain. However, it is typically administered after aspirin unless contraindicated.
Choice D reason: Initiating IV access is an important step in the management of acute angina, as it allows for the administration of medications and fluids if needed. However, it is not the first action to take during an acute angina episode.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Drawing the regular insulin into the syringe first is correct. When mixing two types of insulin, the clear (regular) insulin should be drawn up before the cloudy (NPH) insulin to prevent contamination.
Choice B reason: Storing prefilled syringes with the needle pointed upward can cause air bubbles to move into the insulin, which can alter the dose when injected. The needle should be pointed downward.
Choice C reason: Shaking the NPH vial vigorously is not recommended as it can create air bubbles and affect the insulin dose. Instead, the vial should be gently rolled between the hands to mix the insulin.
Choice D reason: Inserting the needle at a 15-degree angle is incorrect for subcutaneous injections. A 90-degree angle is typically used unless the patient is very thin, in which case a 45-degree angle may be used.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Pressing down on the orbital area of the eye, known as the oculocephalic reflex or 'doll's eye' maneuver, is a method used to assess brainstem function in an unresponsive patient. However, this should be done with caution and is generally avoided if there is a suspicion of a neck injury or increased intracranial pressure.
Choice B reason: Pinching the trapezius muscle is a common method to elicit a response to painful stimuli. It is considered a less invasive and safer initial approach to assess the patient's response to pain without causing harm.
Choice C reason: Using a 25-gauge needle to elicit a response is not a standard practice and can be harmful. It poses a risk of skin puncture and infection, and it is not an appropriate method for assessing a patient's level of consciousness.
Choice D reason: Eliciting a reflex with a reflex hammer is used to assess the deep tendon reflexes, which can provide information about the integrity of the nervous system. However, it is not typically used as a method to elicit a response to painful stimuli in an unresponsive patient.
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